The Best Private Schools in Derby, Kansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Derby. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Independent School
Independent School Network
The Independent School is a premier private college preparatory school located in nearby Wichita that serves families throughout the Derby area. Founded in 1977, this highly-acclaimed institution offers education from Pre-K through 12th grade with exceptional academic programs including extensive Advanced Placement course offerings. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, championship athletic programs, and outstanding arts education. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school consistently produces graduates who attend top-tier universities. Parents rate the school exceptionally high for its academic rigor, supportive community, and comprehensive student development approach.
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St. Mary's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Wichita
St. Mary's Catholic School is a highly-regarded private Catholic school serving Derby and surrounding communities. Established in 1959, the school provides comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith formation and academic excellence. The school features modern facilities, dedicated faculty, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent teacher-student ratios that ensure personalized attention for each child.
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Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Wichita
Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School is a highly-respected private Catholic high school serving students from Derby and the greater Wichita metropolitan area. Established in 1952, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum grounded in Catholic values and traditions. The school features exceptional academic programs with strong STEM offerings, comprehensive fine arts departments, and competitive athletic teams. With modern facilities including advanced science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes, Kapaun provides students with outstanding educational opportunities. The school is particularly noted for its strong community spirit, dedicated faculty, and successful college placement record.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Derby, Kansas
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Derby, Kansas, and what grade levels do they serve?
Derby families have several well-regarded private school options, though it's important to note that some are located in nearby Wichita. Within Derby itself, **St. Mary's Catholic School** is a key PK-8 institution. For high school, many Derby students commute to **Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School** in Wichita. Another prominent regional option is **The Independent School**, also in Wichita, which serves students from Pre-K through 12th grade. This means Derby parents often consider a commute for secondary private education, making transportation a key local consideration.
How does tuition for private schools in the Derby, Kansas area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Kansas residents?
Tuition varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Mary's in Derby typically ranges from $4,500-$6,000 for parishioners, while high schools like Kapaun Mt. Carmel can exceed $10,000. The Independent School's tuition is higher, often aligning with elite independent school models. Critically for Kansas residents, the **Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program** allows donors to receive tax credits for funding scholarships, increasing financial aid availability. Additionally, many schools offer parish subsidies (for Catholic schools), multi-child discounts, and need-based aid. It's essential to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages and deadlines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Derby, KS area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Schools in this area offer distinct programs shaped by their missions. **St. Mary's** provides a faith-based curriculum integrated throughout the day, with strong community service emphasis. **Kapaun Mt. Carmel** offers extensive college preparatory AP courses, robust theology programs, and competitive athletics in the Greater Wichita Athletic League. **The Independent School** is known for its advanced academic track, including a renowned global studies program and extensive arts offerings. A unique local advantage is that these schools often have smaller class sizes than Derby's public schools, allowing for more individualized attention, a common priority for area parents.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Derby, Kansas students, and are there waitlists?
The timeline is crucial due to limited seats. For the Catholic school system (St. Mary's and Kapaun), application processes often open in January for the following fall, with priority given to existing families and parish members until a specified date (often February or March). **The Independent School** typically has an even earlier deadline, sometimes in January, with a rigorous application including assessments and interviews. Waitlists are common, especially for entry-grade levels like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 9th grade. Derby parents are advised to begin attending open houses the prior fall and submit applications as early as possible, as late applicants may find limited availability.
For a family moving to Derby, what are the key considerations when choosing between Derby Public Schools (USD 260) and the area's private schools?
Key considerations include educational philosophy, cost, and logistics. **Derby Public Schools** are highly rated, offer diverse programs (like its renowned engineering magnet), and involve no tuition. The decision often hinges on whether a family seeks a **faith-based education** or a specific pedagogical approach. Private options require a significant financial investment and, for high school, a daily commute to Wichita. However, they offer a consistent educational environment from a specific worldview (e.g., Catholic or independent college-prep). Many Derby families value the close-knit community of the local private schools, while others prefer the comprehensive, no-cost offerings and proximity of the large, award-winning public district. Visiting both types is essential.
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